White vs. Green Asparagus

Every once in a while my supermarket carries white asparagus. Why is it so much more expensive than green? Is it worth it?

The higher cost has to do with its more time-consuming growing method. White asparagus is "regular" asparagus grown underground, where it doesn't get any sun. Farmers bury the young plants in plenty of dirt throughout the growing season to shield the tender shoots from sunlight, which would turn them green. This underground process yields spears that have a stronger, slightly bitter flavor (and are lower in vitamin C). Creamy spears also tend to have fewer tiny leaves at the tip and make a striking contrast next to green as a side dish or on an appetizer tray.